The Blaine Gabbert era will begin in earnest Sunday at Carolina, where the Jaguars rookie quarterback will make his first NFL start against the Panthers and fellow rookie QB Cam Newton.

"I feel really ready," Gabbert told reporters on Wednesday. "I've been preparing for this moment since I got to training camp, learning the offense and getting comfortable with the team. I feel very comfortable."

Blaine Gabbert will make his first career NFL start in Week 3, replacing Luke McCown as the Jaguars' starting quarterback. (AP Photo)

Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio had hoped this would be a wait-and-learn season for Gabbert, the 10th overall pick in this year's draft, but that plan quickly went awry. When Del Rio cut incumbent starter David Garrard five days before the season opener, he promoted Luke McCown to starter and Gabbert became the backup. Then, after only two games, Del Rio benched McCown, who was intercepted four times and took a safety during a 32-3 loss to the Jets last Sunday.

Del Rio pulled McCown after three quarters of the Jets game—the most lopsided loss in Del Rio's nine-year coaching career—and turned to Gabbert, who completed five of six passes for 52 yards in a relief role.

"I got my feet wet," Gabbert said about the Jets game. "I felt comfortable when I was out there because of how I prepared all week long. I prepared like I was starting the game. As a backup in the National Football League, you're one play away, so both quarterbacks in our room prepare that way."

Del Rio talked to McCown and Gabbert about the change early Wednesday morning, then informed the rest of the players. Was Gabbert surprised by becoming the starter after being the No. 3 quarterback only a few weeks ago?

"I guess it's the nature of the business," he said. "I'm not really surprised. You've got to be ready to play when your name is called. That's how I've prepared and that was my mind-set."

As a two-year starter for the University of Missouri, Gabbert threw 40 touchdowns and had 18 interceptions. Although he impressed the Jaguars with his arm strength, pocket presence and situational awareness, he didn't get the benefit of a full offseason of preparation because of the lockout. He struggled at times during the preseason, essentially convincing Del Rio that he needed more time to pick up the offense and read NFL defenses.

Ready or not, Gabbert's time has come—and his performance will have a direct impact on Del Rio's future.

Team owner Wayne Weaver has gone on record in saying that Del Rio needs to lead the Jaguars to the playoffs in order to keep his job. Coming into this season, Del Rio had a record of 66-65 in eight seasons. During his tenure, the Jaguars have had only three winning seasons and gone to the playoffs twice.

Now his fate rests in the hands of a rookie quarterback who is about to make his first start in the NFL.